Day 1
Quito
Welcome to Ecuador! Take a complimentary transfer to your hotel in the capital, Quito, and attend the welcome meeting at 5pm. If you arrive early head out to explore Quito, which is set in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 2,850 metres above sea level. Stroll around the colonial centre to see 16th and 17th century architecture built on Incan ruins, including churches and pretty squares. Don’t miss Quito’s oldest street, Calle La Ronda.
Day 2
Quito
This morning take a walking tour of the historic town of Quinto, heading through Plaza Grande and past the Archbishop's Palace, before heading 800 metres uphill to the Basilica del Voto Nacional. This afternoon enjoy some free time to relax ahead of tomorrow’s adventure.
Breakfast included.
Day 3
Isla Santa Cruz
Take a short flight to Santa Cruz which boasts the largest town in the Galapagos Islands. On arrival take the 45-minute walk to the remote Tortuga Bay beach, which passes Las Grietas gorge, lava rocks and cactus fields. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Experience a slice of local life at the island’s fish market or wander around the scenic town.
Note that you’ll need to purchase a mandatory Transit Control Card for $20 and pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee of $100 in cash
Breakfast included
Day 4
Isla Santa Cruz
This morning you’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, a not-for-profit organisation, which was established in 1959 and tells the story of the Galapagos Islands’ natural and human history. Learn about conservation efforts and get up-close with baby turtles in the breeding program. In the afternoon, you’ll head to a higher part of the island to see wild giant tortoises, which can grow to 400 kilograms.
Breakfast included
Day 5
Isla San Cristobal
Head by boat this morning to Isla San Cristobal. A naturalist guide will greet you and take you to the hotel. After lunch, we’ll visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the fascinating history of the Galapagos Islands. You’ll also hear about the challenges facing the volcanic archipelago and how conservationists are trying to protect this wildlife hotspot.
Climb up Frigatebird Hill, which lies two kilometres away, for sweeping views over the bay and Kicker Rock, two 140-metre-tall volcanic slabs rising out of the ocean. Finish the afternoon with some snorkelling in La Loberia, where it’s possible to spot sea lions and turtles.
Breakfast included.
Day 6
Isla San Cristobal
Start the day with a one-hour boat ride to Isla Lobos, which has the second-largest sea lion colony in the world, amongst other stunning wildlife. Look out for nesting Frigate Birds, Blue-Footed Boobies and Marine Iguanas. There will be plenty of time for swimming and snorkelling and the chance to see manta rays, colourful fish, turtles and even the Galapagos Shark. Return to the hotel late afternoon to chill out.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 7
Quito
After some free time in the morning, say goodbye to the incredible Galapagos Islands and fly back to Quito. Spend a final evening exploring the city, doing some souvenir shopping and dining out.
Breakfast included.
Day 8
Quito
Your Galapagos Islands tour comes to an end and there are no activities planned for the day. You can depart the hotel whenever you like but if you have spare time, there are a range of optional activities on offer including market tours and hiking trips.
Breakfast included.
